The challenge
Vertis Accounting have been a client of Ethical Pixels for many years, since we created the previous version of their website. This site had served them well, but we know that businesses and their approaches can change over time, and this sometimes requires a re-envisioning.
When Vertis Accounting Managing Director Ian Jarvis approached us about updating the site, he wanted to simplify the content and refresh the look and feel. He had also engaged the talented Chris Tarry to write the words that would bring his ‘less-is-more’ vision to life.
We immediately engaged with Ian and Chris to define a new high-level content structure, and then worked with Chris to iterate the designs with his ideas for the copy. Following our normal user-centred design approach allowed us to quickly iterate ideas and for Chris and Ian to see how things would look before we started building.
What we did
Simplified structure with a clean, minimalist aesthetic
We re-imagined the previous site with a ‘less is more’ philosophy: refactoring the structure, simplifying navigation, and removing unnecessary visual elements. With its clean, minimalist aesthetic, featuring restrained colors, clear typography, and ample negative space, the design effectively communicates Vertis’s professional yet approachable brand, while also enhancing the find-ability of crucial information.
Interactive service blocks
Key service areas were split into interactive blocks. Each block reveals more details on hover or tap, reducing visual clutter but still letting users easily view extra detail on service areas they might be interested in.
Dynamic team bios
We built a team listing system on the About page so team members can be showcased with their photos in a clean grid layout. Each team member also gets a page of their own with detailed information about them. New staff can easily be added via the site without any coding required.
Extensible case studies
To support Vertis’s growing collection of client stories, we developed a modular case studies area that allows new entries to be uploaded and tagged. This gives Vertis the ability to show how they’ve helped their diverse clients.
Contact routes with TidyCal integration
Rather than relying solely on static forms for contact, we integrated TidyCal so visitors can book a slot directly in the Vertis calendar. This gives instant confirmation and reduces friction for potential clients.
Dynamic downloads hub
A downloads area was created to feature seasonal updates like budget summaries, updates on tax thresholds, Making Tax Digital guidance, etc. Vertis can upload new PDFs or resources easily in the site so their clients can stay informed.
Global messaging banner
A small banner on top of the site can hold any key information that Vertis wants all their site users to see. This message appears on all pages of the site and can be changed on the back-end at any time with just a few clicks.
Linking to the client portal
Prominent calls‑to‑action are included that direct existing clients to Vertis’ collaborative portal at engager.app.
The result
The new site was constructed on a parallel staging server and when it was time to put it live, the site was seamlessly switched over without any issues or interruption to web or email service. The site continues to be powered by 100% renewable energy, as verified by the Green Web Foundation.
We’re really glad to have collaborated with Chris on the site, and that Ian liked working with us enough that he asked us to create the next generation of his website.
If you are in need of a Digital-first accountant, you might want to consider reaching out to Vertis Accounting.
